Factors that Enhance Treatment Outcome of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Anxiety Disorders

ABSTRACT Effective cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) programs have been developed for aU of the anxiety disorders. Common elements ofCBTfor these disorders include exposure to feared objects, situations, activities, thoughts, memories, and sensations; cognitive restructuring of dysfunctional beliefs; and training in anxiety management skills, such as controlled breathing and relaxation. This article describesCBTprocedures for anxiety disorders and summarizes the research documenting its efficacy. Next, the article discusses the factors that influence the efficacy of these treatment program. Finally, emotional-processing theory is discussed to explain the efficacy of CBT for anxiety and how this theory can assist in selecting optimal treatment brocedures.